The Healing Power of Horses

Trauma hits hard. It can mess with the mind, causing anxiety, depression, and trust issues. Unaddressed trauma can leave people stuck after experiencing traumatic events. Survivors of trafficking often carry a heavy load of trauma long after their physical wounds have healed. This can feel like climbing Mount Everest. It's an arduous journey, but in addition to receiving weekly trauma therapy at Engedi Refuge, survivors also receive equine-assisted therapy through a special partnership with Promise 23 Ranch Ministries. 

Horses are special animals that can feel people’s energy and help calm the storm within. They can teach survivors to breathe, stay present, and ride the waves of their emotions without capsizing. Engedi’s holistic restoration program includes providing opportunities to interact with horses through equine therapy, which teaches survivors to care for and ride horses and to develop trust with these large and powerful animals in a personal and healing way.

Equine therapy is a powerful tool for helping heal survivors of human trafficking. This Spring, Engedi Refuge and Promise 23 Ranch Ministries kicked off a new season of equine therapy for 2025! This incredible partnership allows Engedi’s residents to interact with horses to improve their physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. This program helps survivors rediscover their strength, beauty, and worthiness, one hoofbeat at a time, as these majestic creatures become partners in healing the women at Engedi Refuge.